What to see at Chinese New Year Raceday

This year the exciting schedule, which starts at 11:15am, includes one of the city’s favourite races — the Hong Kong Classic Mile, with a HK$13 million purse. Racegoers can enjoy some additional entertainment with a live performance from Cantopop singer Hins Cheung. Hong Kong pop-rock band Nowhere Boys will also perform in between races.

Furthermore, visitors can participate in a lucky draw, enjoy a traditional lion dance show along with the God of Fortune before the races start to celebrate the New Year, take a picture at the ‘Feng Shui Avenue’ photo location decorated with giant windmills and festive peach blossoms, and savour delicious and traditional Chinese New Year treats. For those looking for tips on how to achieve prosperity and wealth in the New Year, renowned Feng Shui master Mak Ling Ling will make an appearance at the track and offer her prognostications.

Free entry for Hong Kong visitors

Visitors to the track will get a gift upon entering the premises and those coming from abroad can enjoy free admission by showing a valid travel document at the venue’s entry points. For Hong Kong residents, a HK$10 fee will be charged for general admission. Members of the public younger than 18 years old are not allowed at the racetrack and in its betting areas.

This year, the Hong Kong Jockey Club announced that the winnings for the race day — which is one of Hong Kong’s most popular Chinese New Year events — are projected to be HK$20.8 million, thanks to an enhanced Triple Trio jackpot of HK$18 million and a HK$2.8 million jackpot. Betting pools open at 12pm on January 30.

Header image credits: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Actually, lunar new year fairs in Hong Kong are more than just auspicious flowers and plants. You can also find unique festive decorations and yummy snacks. Interested? follow the guide!

Cheung Sha Wan Playground — Cheung Sha Wan

Cheung Sha Wan Playground is a popular venue in Sham Shui Po, frequently used for events like the Lunar New Year Fair. Facilities include football, basketball, and volleyball courts, plus a roller-skating rink. The upcoming fair features 50 wet goods stalls, 36 dry goods stalls, and 3 food stalls.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 425 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Cheung Sha Wan
Getting Here: Take Exit B at Cheung Sha Wan Station

Fa Hui Park — Prince Edward

The Lunar New Year Fair in Sham Shui Po is set to be held at Fa Hui Park from January 23-29, 2025. Shop festive flowers, snacks and decorations at this popular event. The park also offers sports courts, a children’s playground, and various seating areas.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 101 Boundary Street, Prince Edward
Getting Here: Walk from Mong Kok East Station Exit D) or Prince Edward Station Exit A

Kwai Chung Sports Ground — Kwai Fong

Kwai Chung Sports Ground welcomes visitors to its Lunar New Year fair, with 76 wet goods stalls and 22 dry goods stalls. This multipurpose venue with athletics facilities is close to Metroplaza and Kwai Chung Plaza shopping malls. 

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 93 Hing Shing Road, Kwai Fong
Getting Here: Walk 15-20 minutes from Kwai Fong Station, Exit E

Kwun Tong Recreation Ground — Kwun Tong

The annual Lunar New Year Fair at Kwun Tong Recreation Ground offers 130 festive stalls selling flowers, trinkets, and snacks. With a convenient location next to Tsui Ping Estate, this flower market attracts the residents in Kwun Tong to stock up on CNY essentials.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 8:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 8:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 8:00am-7:00am
Where: 6 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong
Getting Here: Walk from Kwun Tong Station Exit D1

Man Yee Playground — Sai Kung

Man Yee Playground in Sai Kung is a community hub with basketball courts, children’s play areas, and abstract murals by local artists Wong Ting Fung and Neil Wang. This Chinese New Year, the playground transforms into a boutique market featuring 16 wet goods stalls and 4 dry goods stalls.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 7:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 7:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 7:00am-7:00am
Where: 25 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung
Getting Here: Take the MTR to Choi Hung (Exit C2) and transfer to minibus 1A/1M to Sai Kung.

Po Hong Park — Tseung Kwan O

Po Hong Park in Tseung Kwan O opened for the public with sports facilities, playgrounds, roller-skating facilities and a jogging track since 1997. The annual Lunar New Year Fair this year will feature 54 wet goods stalls, 34 dry goods stalls and 2 food vendors.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 7:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 7:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 7:00am-7:00am
Where: 10 Wan Lung Road, Tseung Kwan O
Getting Here: Walk from Po Lam Station Exit B2

Sha Tsui Road Playground — Tsuen Wan

The upcoming Lunar New Year Fair at Sha Tsui Road Playground will feature 96 wet stalls and 30 dry stalls. Surrounded by several public schools, this venue is often used for school sport events and community celebrations, including Mid-Autumn lantern displays and New Year countdowns. 

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 171-199 Sha Tsui Road, Tsuen Wan
Getting Here: Walk 10-15 minutes from Tsuen Wan Station Exit A or Tsuen Wan West Station Exit D

Shek Wu Hui Playground — Sheung Shui

Visit Shek Wu Hui Playground’s Lunar New Year Fair, offering 54 wet stalls and 19 dry stalls. The venue is thoughtfully designed to be wheelchair-friendly. In late February, don’t miss the Golden Trumpet Trees lining the road, creating a stunning golden trail.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 8:00am-12:00am | January 26-27: 8:00am-3:00am | January 28-29: 8:00am-7:00am
Where: Shek Wu Hui Playground, Fu Hing Street, Sheung Shui
Getting Here: Walk from Sheung Shui Station Exit A4

Tat Tung Road Garden — Tung Chung

Located near Tung Chung MTR Station and the cable car terminal, Tat Tung Road Garden is a picturesque spot with pavilion and scenic gardens. Each March, the garden’s 85 cherry blossom trees burst into bloom, drawing visitors from near and far. This Lunar New Year, the fair will host 10 wet stalls and 17 dry stalls.

Date & Time: January 23-27: 12:00pm-12:00am | January 28-29: 12:00pm-7:00am
Where: Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung
Getting Here: Walk 10 minutes from Tung Chung MTR Station Exit D

Tin Hau Temple Feng Shui Square — Tai Po

Tin Hau Temple Feng Shui Square is located in front of Tin Hau Temple and serves as a popular event venue for local residents in Tai Po. This Chinese New Year, its Lunar New Year fair will have 40 wet stalls, 15 dry stalls, and a food stall.

Date & Time: January 23-27: 9:00am-12:00am | January 28-29: 9:00am-6:00am
Where: 10 Ting Kok Road, Tai Po
Getting Here: Walk 10 minutes from Tai Wo Station Exit B, or Take Minibus 20A, 20B, 20C, or 20K from Tai Po Market Station and get off at Wing Fai Garden

Tin Hau Temple Plaza — Tuen Mun

If you get a chance to visit Tuen Mun from January 23-29, don’t miss the CNY flower market at Tin Hau Temple Plaza, just a 7-minute walk from Tuen Mun Station. This historic site hosts cultural celebrations all year round, including the birth of Tin Hau. Enjoy shopping at 40 wet stalls, 15 dry stalls, and 2 food stalls with delicious bites.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 8:00am-11:00pm, January 26-27: 8:00am-3:00am, January 28-29: 8:00am-7:00am
Where: Tin Hau Temple Plaza, Tuen Mun
Getting Here: Walk 7 minutes from Tuen Mun Station Exit A

Tsz Wan Shan Estate Central Playground — Wong Tai Sin

The CNY Fair at Tsz Wan Shan Estate Central Playground features 40 wet stalls, 34 dry stalls, and 2 food stalls. On Lunar New Year’s Eve, visit the flower market before heading to Wong Tai Sin Temple, a famous temple in Hong Kong. Locals believe in the ritual of placing the first incense sticks of the new year for good luck and health.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 8:00am-12:00am, January 26-27: 8:00am-3:00am, January 28-29: 8:00am-7:00am
Where: 1 Wan Wah Street, Wong Tai Sin
Getting Here: Take Bus 3B from Wong Tai Sin Station and get off at Oi Fu House

Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground — Yuen Long

Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground is one of the largest sports complex with basketball and football courts in Yuen Long. This year, the Lunar New Year fair features 96 wet stalls, 60 dry stalls, and 2 food stalls.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am, January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am, January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 18 Tung Tau Industrial Area, Wang Yip East Street, Yuen Long
Getting Here: Walk 10 minutes from Long Ping Station Exit F

Victoria Park — Causeway Bay

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The famous Victoria Park will host the largest CNY flower market in Hong Kong. This year, expect 175 wet stalls, 216 dry stalls, and 4 food stalls. The park is well-equipped with various sports venues and is a popular location for expos and events like the Tennis Open. It is one of the best places to get into the festive spirit, so expect large crowds during the fair period.

Date & Time: January 23-25: 8:00am-12:00am, January 26-27: 8:00am-3:00am, January 28-29: 8:00am-7:00am
Where: 1 Hing Fat Street, Causeway Bay
Getting Here: Walk 10 minutes from Causeway Bay Station Exit E or Tin Hau Station Exit A2

Yuen Wo Playground — Sha Tin

Over in Sha Tin, the Lunar New Year fair will be held at Yuen Wo Playground, not far from New Town Plaza. With 49 wet goods stalls and 26 dry goods stalls, the waterfront venue is accessible via the cycling track. There are various shops in Sha Tin and Tai Wai where you can rent a bicycle for the day. On the second day of Chinese New Year marks the birth of Che Kung. Don’t miss the chance to visit Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin and pray for good luck!

Date & Time: January 23-25: 9:00am-12:00am, January 26-27: 9:00am-3:00am, January 28-29: 9:00am-7:00am
Where: 16 Yuen Wo Road, Sha Tin
Getting Here: Walk 20 minutes or take Minibus 60K from Sha Tin Station and get off on Yuen Wo Road

Header image credit: Leung Cho Pan via Canva

Main attractions of the lantern exhibition

The lanterns are on display from January 23-February 16, 2025, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and have been set up at the piazza pool at the foot of the Clock Tower. The centrepiece is a six-metre-high palace lantern embellished with peonies and magpies. Sky lanterns are displayed in front of the exhibit, along with an installation featuring a lotus surrounded by carp.

Attendees can also check out the ‘Glittering Fish・Lanterns with Abundant Blessings’ display made by Hong Kong-based paper-crafting master Mo Cheuk-kei. The design, inspired by traditional Lunar New Year paintings, depicts a koi fish and a goldfish leaping out of the water. The installation also has two lions wearing cheongsams atop the fish, with one holding a fortune stick container and the other clutching spring scrolls. The lanterns will be illuminated from 6pm-11pm every day.

Lunar New Year Lantern Carnival

Hongkongers and tourists who want to extend their Year of the Snake celebrations into next month can attend the Lunar New Year Lantern Carnival at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza from February 7-12, 2025. During this time, visitors can get a front-row seat to events like music and dance shows, breakdancing, a lion dance, a band performance, a lantern riddle quiz and more.

Image credits: GovHK

Is it Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year?

Lunar New Year and Chinese New Year refers to the same thing, the most important traditional festival in Hong Kong and Mainland China. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar, typically falling in January or February, depending on the year.

The choice of whether to refer to it as Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year essentially depends on where you are and who you’re talking to. While “Chinese New Year” is more common in Hong Kong, China, and among Chinese communities worldwide, “Lunar New Year” is the preferred term for other Asian countries that celebrate the festival. However, many people use Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year interchangeably.

Are There Differences Between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year?

Besides the wording, there are differences between Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year. Chinese New Year in China and Hong Kong includes events like parades, dragon and lion dances, as well as customs observed at work and within the family, like gatherings, giving red packets, decorating with specific flowers and fruits, and, of course, enjoying big feasts.

In Korea, during Seollal (Lunar New Year), families come together for a three-day celebration. They show respect to their elders through a traditional bow, receiving New Year’s money in return. Traditional dishes like Tteokguk (rice cake soup), Jeon (pan-fried pancakes), and Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) are served. People wear Hanbok, a colourful Korean attire, and perform ancestral rituals. The zodiac guides their planning, and a “moon house” made of burnable firewood and branches, is set to ward off evil spirits and make wishes for the year ahead.

In Vietnam, during Tết, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, families unite and observe various traditions as well. Many return to their hometowns to honour ancestors and maintain graves, while different regions and religions have their distinct customs. Preparations involve cooking special foods such as Bánh Tét and Bánh Chưng, rice cakes with diverse fillings, as well as roasted watermelon seeds (Hạt Dưa), pickled onions and cabbage (Dưa Hành), and dried candied fruits (Mứt). People also engage in house cleaning, visit each other, exchange New Year’s greetings, and give lucky money to children and elders.

Chinese New Year and other Lunar New Year celebrations like Tết, and Seollal all involve cultural traditions centred around family reunions, ancestral honouring, and the preparation of special traditional foods.

Header Image Credit: Canva

What Is Lantern Festival

Chinese Lantern Festival, also known as Yuan Xiao Festival, Shang Yuan Festival, and Spring Lantern Festival in China and Taiwan, marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations and the first full moon of the lunar year. On this day, people in Hong Kong go out to admire the lantern decorations and solve riddles on the lanterns.

In auspicious terms, the lighting of lanterns is done in hopes of facilitating peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness throughout society. The round shape of the lanterns symbolise unity and wholeness within the family. Not only do the lit lanterns create a grand sight to see, they also light up the path for new, prosperous beginnings for the rest of the year.

How Did Lantern Festival Start

There are a couple of stories associated with the Lantern Festival’s origins. Scholars agree that the historical root lies in the Han Dynasty (206 BCE to 220 CE), when Buddhist monks lit lanterns at the beginning of the lunar year to honour Buddha. The reigning emperor, Emperor Ming, was a devout Buddhist and supported this practice. Thus, the emperor’s entire palace was filled with lanterns.

Secondly, a legend says that upon hearing that a village had killed his goose, the Jade Emperor was furious. Hungry for revenge, he planned to burn the village down. A good-natured mythical creature heard of this plan and went to warn the townsfolk, who then lit lanterns to fool the emperor into thinking that the village was already in flames. The tactic worked, and lighting lanterns carried forward as a tradition representing compassion and unity.

How Do You Celebrate Lantern Festival

Chinese Lantern Festival is earmarked with celebrations that make a grand spectacle. Normally, the festivities occur at night in order to fully relish the colours of the spectacles.

The obvious activity is the lighting of lanterns. They traditionally come in round shapes, but as the festival goes hand-in-hand with Chinese New Year, the lanterns also come in animal shapes based on the zodiac animal of the year. Sometimes, riddles with messages of wisdom or fortune are written on the lanterns for viewers to crack.

Crowds gather to view colourful light installations of what seems like hundreds of hanging lanterns or prosperous symbols like dragons and gold taels put on display in parks. For some, the vibrant display of lights makes this festival almost synonymous with Chinese Valentine’s Day, as it’s a romantic way to spend the evening.

Another celebrations that take place during Lantern Festival is uniting with loved ones over a delicious bowl of sweet glutinous rice dumplings, a.k.a. tang yuan. Tang yuan soup dumplings filled with sesame, red bean, or peanut paste are eaten with family as their round shape is symbolic of unity.

Lantern festivals in other Asian cultures

Similar holidays to Chinese Lantern Festival are celebrated in other Asian cultures.

Loy Krathong in Thailand is celebrated on the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. This year, the festival will occur on November 5, 2025. The idea behind Loy Krathong is giving thanks to the Goddess of Water and Buddha, as well as asking for forgiveness for consuming too much water during the year. In Bangkok, people go to lakes, rivers, and canals to release lotus-shaped boats decorated with banana leaves, flowers, and candles. In Chiang Mai, people release lanterns into the air in a grand spectacle.

Thadingyut Festival is a festival of lights in Burma. Celebrated over three days in the seventh month of the Burmese calendar (October 6, 2025 this year), Thadingyut marks Buddha’s descent from heaven. Buddhists welome the Buddha by lighting up the streets and homes with lights or candles, putting on musical shows, and setting off firecrackers.

The Lotus Lantern Festival or Yeondeunghoe in South Korea marks Buddha’s Birthday. Each year in May, hundreds of lanterns are placed on Cheonggycheon Stream in downtown Seoul and traditionally-clothed processions of people carry beautiful lanterns in a street parade. The lanterns carry meanings of well-being and peace for the world.

Toro Nagashi, the Japanese Floating Lantern Festival, occurs in Tokyo over three days in mid-August. This is when people head to rivers to float decorated lanterns on the water and make wishes. This day coincides with Obon Day, celebrated to welcome spirits and ancestors back to their hometown. The lanterns are believed to embody the spirits and help guide their return.

Interested about other traditional Chinese Festivals? Explore our Culture guides to discover and learn more.

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What Are Traditional Chinese Clothings

Looking to immerse yourself in the festival spirit by wearing traditional Chinese clothing? Here are four types of garments to consider:

Hanfu (漢服)

With a history dating back over 4,000 years, hanfu is the perfect example of traditional Chinese costume. Characterised by an open cross-collar, full-body robes, and intricate accessories, hanfu is simple yet elegant. Thanks to Chinese social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu, this style of dresses is now popularly worn not just for festivals and weddings, but also as a fashionable choice for photos.

Qipao & Cheongsam (旗袍 & 長衫)

Qipao, known for its form-fitting elegance, evolved from the Manchu women’s long gown, or cheongsam. The dress beautifully merges traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern styles, evident in variations like the Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong designs. Today, the elegant qipao is a popular choice for Chinese New Year outfits.

Tang Suit or Tang Zhuang (唐裝)

The Tang suit (or Tang Zhuang in Mandarin), typically a jacket with a Mandarin collar and frog buttons, originated not from the Tang Dynasty but from the Manchurian magua (馬褂). Often decorated with auspicious symbols and Chinese characters, it is commonly worn by both men and women for significant events, including Chinese New Year.

Zhongshan Suit (中山裝)

Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the former president of the Republic of China and known in Mandarin as Sun Zhongshan, is credited with creating the Zhongshan suit, also popularly referred to as the ‘Mao suit’. This attire has soon become the chosen outfit among politicians, including Chinese political leaders like President Xi Jinping. Characterised by its four practical pockets across the chest and waist, along with a stand-up collar, the Zhongshan suit is suitable for both formal and casual occasions for men, as well as as Chinese New Year outfits. Its symmetrical design and subtle, plain colours is designed for those who appreciate understated elegance.

What Colours To Wear During Lunar New Year

In places where Lunar New Year is celebrated, ringing in the new year goes beyond making resolutions—it’s all about making a fresh start, ensuring good luck and fortune for the coming year. When it comes to clothing, people also love to wear the ‘right colours’ during the 15-day celebration, even if they’re not opting for traditional Chinese costume.

• Red for Prosperity: Red, the quintessential Chinese lucky colour, is a must-have in your New Year wardrobe. It is believed to bring strength and prosperity, particularly for those born in the year of the current Chinese zodiac. As the New Year dawns, people often wear red from head to toe — including red underwear, thought to bring additional luck in games and mahjong.
• Gold for Opulence: If red feels too bold, gold is an excellent alternative. Symbolising wealth, prosperity, and fortune, gold reflects the royalty and supremacy of emperors throughout Chinese history. It’s believed that yellow and gold also represent the spiritual realm. Whether it’s white gold, rose gold or yellow gold, gold-coloured attire or gold-tone accessories can add a touch of sophistication to your New Year’s look.
• Yellow for Power: According to the Chinese Five Elements theory, red, yellow, and green are auspicious colours, with yellow representing the earth element. This prestigious colour, once dedicated exclusively to the emperor, represents prosperity, hope, royalty, and power. It was commonly found in the emperor’s attire and imperial places like The Forbidden City.

What To Avoid Wearing During Chinese New Year

In Chinese society, many believe it’s important to ‘get things right’ on the first day of the new year, as it’s thought to set the tone for the year ahead. So, we share some long-standing taboos to help you strike the right note for the Year of the Snake!

• Avoid all white or black: Wearing white or black during Lunar New Year can lead to disapproving looks from elders, and for good reason. In Chinese culture, wearing all-white (or all-black) is a symbol of loss and mourning, usually reserved for funerals. Wearing these two colours on CNY is deemed unlucky for the celebrations.
• New shoes: In Hong Kong, the Cantonese word for ‘shoes’ (haai, 鞋) sounds like ‘sighing’ (aai, 唉), leading to the belief that buying shoes brings bad luck, suggesting a rough, bumpy year ahead. This also applies to gifting shoes to others.
• No damaged clothes: As Chinese New Year is a significant festival in most Asian communities, wearing torn or damaged clothing is thought to attract bad luck for the rest of the year. To welcome good fortune and show respect at the start of the new year, ensure your outfit is in perfect condition.

Where To Shop Qipao & Cheongsam In Hong Kong

Looking to join the festivities with a new look? In Hong Kong, you can find traditional Chinese costumes at many places closer to the festival. Other than ordering from Taobao or visiting your favourite shopping mall, consider visiting night markets or street markets like Pottinger Street in Central, Ladies’ Market in Mong Kok, and Stanley Market in Stanley, or Chinese department stores such as Yue Hwa in Jordan. Moreover, it’s impressive to see many local fashion brands modernising Chinese qipao and cheongsam, making them more accessible not only for Lunar New Year but also for daily wear.

Header image credit: Dragon images via Canva

Highlights of the 2025 Chinese New Year fireworks show

Hong Kong’s fireworks shows for Chinese New Year usually take place on the second day of the Lunar New Year. Spectators will be treated to scenes that pay tribute to aspects of Chinese culture and recent Hong Kong events. As a bonus, two prominent buildings on Hong Kong Island — the Convention & Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai and the HSBC building in Central — will project an LED show that will play in tandem with the pyrotechnics display.

The show will kick off with a scene revolving around the lucky red number eight, which represents wishes for prosperity, happiness, and contentment for the city in the Year of the Snake. The highlight will be the eighth scene that will feature six panda heads against a green backdrop symbolising bamboo — a nod to Hong Kong’s panda family at Ocean Park. As part of the spectacle, the sky will also light up with red and silver peonies and red hearts. The finale, called ‘Dance of the Golden Snake’, will be accompanied by the sound of gongs and drums.

Where to watch the Lunar New Year fireworks display

The display will be visible from both sides of Victoria Harbour, and authorities say that some of the best free spots in Hong Kong to watch the fireworks show will be Tsim Sha Tsui, Mid-Levels, Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, East Coast Park Precinct in Fortress Hill, and Hung Hom Bypass.

Hong Kong’s most recent pyrotechnics display was on January 1 to usher in the year 2025. This event was also held at Victoria Harbour, was 12 minutes long, had rainbow-coloured smoke with silver pyrotechnics for the first time, and three pre-show ‘Shooting Stars’ displays. Five barges and 16 pontoons were spread across 1.3km on Victoria Harbour to launch the fireworks.

Image credits: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Here are the main Chinese New Year foods and snacks and their meanings.

Chinese New Year Pudding

What’s sticky yet sweet and irresistible? Chinese glutinous rice cakes, or CNY pudding! Made of rice flour and brown sugar, nin gou (年糕) sounds like ‘year higher’ in Cantonese, thus its auspicious meanings of progress, growth and advancement. It’s believed that people will elevate in life and become prosperous, whether getting promoted in their careers or advancing in their studies. Today, you can find various versions of this traditionally sweet treats available in the market.

Poon Choi

Poon choi is a Chinese New Year dish that represents unity, gathering, abundance and wealth. Similar to hotpot, this dish is meant to be shared among family and friends. The pot is generously filled to the brim with heaps of cooked ingredients, like braised pork knuckle, abalone, dried scallops, and assorted vegetables. Prepared days in advance, poon choi is rich in flavours and often served as the centrepiece of any celebratory meal.

Braised Dried Oyster with Black Moss

A new year blessed with prosperity and good fortune? Yes, please! The first staple dish during the festival is Braised Dried Oysters with the hair-like Black Moss (faat choi hou si). This speciality Chinese New Year cuisine is auspiciously known to bring great things and abundance (發財好市). Dried oysters sound like ‘great markets’ (hou si, 好市) when pronounced in Cantonese, while black moss, also known as hair vegetable, sounds like ‘be prosperous’ (faat choi, 發財). Both ingredients are certainly premium, so if you happen to be in the presence of this dish, remember to serve everyone and yourself a generous portion!

Chicken

In the Canton area, chicken is a must for celebrations, and Lunar New Year is no exception. It’s not just about the taste; in Cantonese, the word for chicken (gei, 雞) sounds similar to ‘family’ (gaa, 家), indicating family harmony and marital bliss. Some also believe each part of the chicken, from wings to soup, carries a specific wish for a smooth, prosperous year. For instance, chicken wings represent “spreading your wings and flying high”, which suggests work promotions or good grades at school.

Crispy Pastry Dumpling

If you have to save your quota for just one deep-fried food, save it for yau gok. Yau gok are deep-fried dumplings in the Canton areas. They’re traditional CNY treats shaped into the historic Chinese currency of gold ingot, so it only makes sense that they have come to signify wealth and good fortune. The dumplings are made of glutinous rice dough and filled with a variety of condiments, from savoury items like minced pork and mushroom to sweet ones like peanuts and sesame paste. Most of them are served in miniature sizes as snacks.

Fish

Another must-have on the Lunar New Year table is a whole fish, of any kind. In Cantonese, ‘fish’ (yu, 魚) resonates with ‘abundance’ (jyu, 餘), promising a year filled with abundance. It’s customary to serve fish on both New Year’s Eve and the first day of the Lunar New Year. Pro tips: eat just the middle portion on New Year’s Eve and save the rest for the following day – it’s all about starting and ending the year with abundance.

Lettuce

Be particular about the vegetables you eat over Chinese New Year; lettuce (saang coi, 生菜) is particularly auspicious as its pronunciation in Chinese suggests ‘creating wealth’ (sanng coi, 生財). Enjoy it however you prefer.
It’s not just the people that eats lettuce during Lunar New Year – people like to offer lettuce to the lion during lion dance performances, which then ‘eats’ and then spits it back out. This traditional practice is known as cai qing (採青) or ‘picking the greens’, representing wealth and prosperity blessings for the new year.

Prosperity Toss Salad

As its name suggests, Prosperity Toss Salad (lo hey, 撈起) represents abundance and prosperity. Originating from Southern Asia, the Teochew-style raw fish salad is now a Chinese New Year staple dish that features ingredients like raw salmon strips, shredded vegetables, and a mix of sauces. When served, diners shall stand and fling the ingredients high with chopsticks, chanting “lo hey, lo hey” (撈起, 撈起) – the louder, the more fortune it will bring!

Sesame Balls

Sesame balls, or jin deui (煎堆), are crispy on the outside and soft, chewy on the inside. Made from glutinous rice flour and loaded with sweet fillings like red bean or black sesame paste, these treats are then rolled into balls, coated in sesame seeds, and fried to golden perfection. In Chinese culture, sesame is believed to bring good fortune and happiness (煎堆轆轆，金銀滿屋). Interesting enough, a bite into the fried ball creates a smiley face-like shape, perfect for bringing laughter and joy to the new year!

Sesame Smiling Cookie Balls

Similar to sesame balls, sesame cookies (siu hau jou, 笑口棗) are made with sesame, which represents good fortune and happiness. So-called ‘smiling cookie balls’, they get their nickname from the way the dough splits open into a Pacman-esque smile when baked. Unlike the chewy texture of sesame balls, these cookies are delightfully crisp, topped with sesame seeds for a touch of nutty goodness. Indulging in these cookies is believed to bring more positivity and radiance into your life. Sesame cookies make a great gifting option when you make your rounds visiting friends and family over the Lunar New Year.

Snack Tray

While going house to house to visit friends and family over the holiday, many would be greeted with a candy tray, or cyun hap (全盒) in Cantonese, which makes a tray of togetherness. This tray is more of ‘a box of candy’ that’s filled with many Chinese New Year treats, like sweet lotus seeds (tong lin zi, 糖蓮子), sunflower seeds, sweet lotus roots (tong lin ngau, 糖蓮藕) and sweet winter melon (tong dong gwaa, 糖冬瓜). Each of these snacks carries different meanings. For example, sunflower seeds represent having many sons and grandsons as the word ‘seed’ also means children in Chinese. Overall, the tray symbolises good luck, and everyone sharing the joy will live a happy, wholesome life.

Sweet Rice Dumplings

End a Chinese New Year meal with some deliciously sweet rice dumplings (tong yun, 湯圓). These mochi-like dumplings are filled with a variety of mashed condiments, like peanuts and black sesame, that auspiciously mean bringing sweetness into one’s life. Their smooth, round shapes represent harmony and wholeness and bring family and friends together. A bowl of sweet rice dumplings is typically eaten on Chinese Lantern Festival, which falls on the final day of the 15-day Chinese New Year celebration.

Turnip Cake

Turnip cake, a staple in Cantonese yum cha, becomes especially popular during Chinese New Year as the word for radish (choi tau, 菜頭) in Hokkien is a homophone for ‘fortune’ (coi, 財). To make this dish, shred Chinese white turnip first, then mix with water and flour. Enhance the flavour by adding your choice of ingredients like dried shrimps, dried shiitake mushrooms, and Chinese sausage. Once the mixture sets, you can pan-fry or steam it, then serve it hot with hot sauce or oyster sauce for a delightful festive treat.

Header image credits: Marcus Chung via Canva

AIRSIDE — Kai Tak

AIRSIDE invites you to celebrate the Year of the Snake with its spectacular Blessings of the Magical Guardians installation. Featuring four auspicious beasts from Chinese legend tales — dragon, kirin, phoenix, and tortoise — take centre stage at The Atrium, bringing prosperity, longevity, and fortune to the visitors. They are crafted from upcycled materials by local artists and community groups and will even ‘come to life’ on special days. You can also visit the 3-metre tall peach blossom tree, and play with the supersized Snakes & Ladders game and shop at Lunar New Year markets. 

When: January 16-February 15, 2025
Where: The Atrium, 2/F, AIRSIDE, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Central Market — Central

This Chinese New Year, Central Market transforms into a magical space featuring Disney’s cat and dog characters, including Lucifer from Cinderella, the Dalmatian family, and Marie from The Aristocats, all dressed in festive attire. From now until February 16, bring your little ones to take pictures and shop for themed merchandise at the Disney pop-up store. Other highlights include a giant mahjong party by Glocal Mahjong, workshops on mahjong culture, and a special market offering festive snacks and pastries.

When: From now until February 16, 2025
Where: Oasis G/F, Grand Staircase Front 1/F & 2/F, 93 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Citygate Outlets — Tung Chung

For the first time ever, Citygate Outlets teamed up with KITKAT and bring Catch The Luck Lunar New Year display. From now until February 16, the mall comes alive with eight larger-than-life, interactive Lucky Cat and Daruma installations, and don’t miss the beautifully crafted Shrine of Love, complete with a two-metre Japanese lantern and intricate flower lanterns by Mo Cheng. Catch the traditional lion dances and the Yosakoi Soran performance on designated days. 

When: From now until February 16, 2025
Where: 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Cityplaza — Quarry Bay

Many people love a daily can of Coca-Cola; if you’re a fan, head to Cityplaza for its collaboration with the brand for the LIVE HAPPY Cheers! Lunar New Year celebrations! The retro diner-themed concept features six interactive zones where you can create personalised fai chun, draw fortune fries with ketchup messages, and take pictures with iconic Coca-Cola crates and classic booth seating. Spend HK$200 or more to redeem fun gifts like the LIVE Happy Apron Set.

When: January 16-February 16, 2025
Where: 18 Tai Koo Shing Road, Quarry Bay
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Citywalk — Tsuen Wan

In collaboration with Lai Yuen, the former themed park in Hong Kong, and LOCOLOCO, Citywalk in Tsuen Wan brings festive spirits with Happy Fat Year display. At the event hall, have fun playing six Lai Yuen’s classic games, such as coin and ring toss, and can knockdown games, with chances to win limited-edition souvenirs. Meanwhile, the LOCOLOCO Lunar New Year Fair features over 20 stalls selling festive treats, decorations, and gift boxes. 

When: January 17-February 16, 2025
Where: Event Hall, Citywalk, 1 Yeung Uk Road, Tsuen Wan
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

ELEMENTS — West Kowloon

Ring in the Year of the Snake at ELEMENTS! The shopping mall has partnered with local fashion and fabric artist Sonic Lam to present the Embrace Springtime with Full Vigour CNY display. The centrepiece stealing the spotlight is a majestic 5.5-metre-tall peacock, crafted with colourful textiles and feathers that accurately depict its body and tail to show its grandeur. Surrounding the peacock are floating auspicious knots, lanterns, and textile flowers, echoing the spirit of vigour and abundance.

When: January 15-February 16, 2025
Where: 1/F Metal Zone, ELEMENTS, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Festival Walk — Kowloon Tong

Festival Walk is in full bloom this Chinese New Year with the Festival Walk x wiggle wiggle Joyous Flower World, running from January 10 to February 9. This partnership with the fashion brand wiggle wiggle marks their first exhibit in Hong Kong, featuring a 3-metre-tall wiggle bear and colourful interactive zones. The most popular photo spots include the Upside-Down Room, reimagined from their Korean flagship store, the playful wiggle bear ball pit and a whimsical telephone booth.

When: January 10-February 9, 2025
Where: Level LG2, Festival Walk, 80 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Harbour City — Tsim Sha Tsui

Chinese New Year celebrations wouldn’t be complete without lion dances. This Lunar New Year, Harbour City features 18 colourful lions and 13 traditional Chinese drums at its Lions Roar, Blessings Pour installations. In distinctive hues, each lion carries its own New Year blessing – for instance, yellow for ‘Soaring to Great Success’, red for ‘A Burst of Good Fortune’, and light green for ‘Smooth Sailing Ahead’. You are invited to touch the lions and strike the drums for good luck! Besides, you can redeem Good Fortune Cards created by celebrity Feng Shui Master Lee Shing Chak, with proceeds benefiting the Hong Kong Blood Cancer Foundation.

When: January 11-February 16, 2025
Where: Ocean Terminal Forecourt and Atrium, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

IFC — Central

This Lunar New Year, ifc mall transforms its Oval Atrium into a Tapestry of Abundance. Running from January 16 to February 12, the Shan Shui-inspired garden features majestic mountains and flowing water, indicating prosperity and success. Stroll across the Koi Encounter Bridge and create personalised digital paintings at the Canvas of Blessings. Don’t forget to craft your own Fan of Fortune, adorned with auspicious symbols, as a special keepsake!

When: January 16-February 12, 2025
Where: Oval Atrium, Podium Level 1, ifc mall, 8 Finance Street, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Langham Place — Mong Kok

There is a Chinese saying that fish represent abundance, and Langham Place welcomes the Year of the Snake with the Goldfish Art Experience Pavilion. In collaboration with local printmaker and tattoo artist Li Ning, this Chinese New Year display features the Goldfish Fantasy Trilogy mural, which is inspired from Goldfish Street. Enjoy taking photos at the interactive Fisheye Photo Taking Booth and release your worries at the Goldfish Stress-Free Zone.

When: January 10-February 16, 2025
Where: L4, Langham Place, 8 Argyle Street, Mong Kok
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

LCX — Tsim Sha Tsui

LCX is celebrating this Lunar New Year with M&M’S! From now until 14 February, add a pop of colour to the festivities and meet the fan favourite M&M’S characters at the Lions Roar, Blessings Pour CNY display. From a themed photo booth, to interactive games like a claw machine, try your hand in winning exclusive goodies. Redeem M&M’S red packets and fai chun upon spedning.

When: Now until February 14, 2025
Where: Level 3, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Lee Gardens — Causeway Bay

Lee Gardens celebrates the Year of the Snake with a Bang! Pop! Spark! Party! Drawing inspiration from local Hong Kong culture, visitors can join the Lee Gardens Street Game, Hawkers’ Run, Red Dog Debate, and Mahjong Tournament 100. Additionally, find out your fortune for the year ahead at the Chinese New Year Market’s fortune-telling and Tarot reading booths. Even your furry friends can join in the festivities with a selection of curated pet accessories, snacks, and grooming services.

When: January 27-31, 2025
Where: Pak Sha Road and Kai Chiu Road, Causeway Bay
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Lee Tung Avenue — Wan Chai

Lee Tung Avenue continues its tradition of hanging up a canopy of over 800 Chinese lanterns with the Lanterns-Lit Year of the Snake display to celebrate the festival. In light of the Chinese Lantern Festival and Valentine’s Day, the CNY displays also add a romantic touch with 12 beautiful 4-metre peach blossom trees and a heart-shaped arch. Enjoy lion dance performances and shop at the charity market – the Salvation Army CNY Chill Fest. Honouring the street’s historic roots as a hub for wedding-related items, the venue will also host exclusive wedding-themed events throughout the celebration period.

When: January 14-March 2, 2025
Where: 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

MegaBox — Kowloon Bay

MegaBox is getting festive for Chinese New Year with the adorable MegaBox x mofusand Cuddly Cat Hanami Station.  From now until February 16, visit Hong Kong’s first 18-feet Cuddly Cat Hanami Station and a 17-feet Giant Maneki-Neko mofusand. Take pictures at the Cherry Blossom Bridge and Golden Prosperity Flower, or toss a customised wish coin into the Wishing Well with Cuddly Cat. After that, you’re invited to design your own Lucky e-Omamori, shop exclusive merchandise at the mofusand Pop-up Store!

When: December 14, 2024-February 16, 2025
Where: L5 Atrium and Outdoor Area, MegaBox, Kowloon Bay
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Metro City Plaza — Tseung Kwan O

Metro City Plaza transforms into a LEGO Playground this Lunar New Year, featuring five themed zones, including a 4-metre-tall MCP Fortune Pinball Game and the Maneki Neko Mansion. Snap photos under the 3.5-metre LEGO Peach Tree or compete in the Formula-Fun Race. Kids can enjoy STEAM-inspired LEGO workshops and the Vibrant Bouncing Paradise. H·COINS members can also redeem exclusive LEGO® festive ornaments and red packets.

When: January 11-February 16, 2025
Where: L1, MCP Central, 8 Yan King Road, Tseung Kwan O
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

New Town Plaza — Sha Tin

Over in Sha Tin, New Town Plaza will set a romantic tone with The Peach Blossom Fortune Garden in the atrium. This beautiful display, designed to bring blessings and luck, features a 4-metre peach blossom tree, a floral pathway, a butterfly garden and a wishing flower wheel. Shop festive goods, New Year snacks and exclusive merchandise at the Log-On Pop-Up Market. On the first two days of CNY, the mall will host a God of Fortune Parade, and on February 2, there will be a traditional lion dance performance.

When: Now until February 16
Where: New Town Plaza, 18-19 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Pacific Place — Admiralty

Pacific Place invites you to its Weaving Celebration of Fortunes, a beautiful showcase of intricate Chinese knot artistry by local designer Zoe Siu, running from January 16 to February 16. Meticulously crafted over 300 hours, these installations combine traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetic. Visit on February 4 for the Eye-dotting Ceremony and Lion Dance Parade, as well as a cappella performances by SENZA on February 8 and 15.

When: January 16–February 16, 2025
Where: LG1, Garden Court, Pacific Place, Admiralty
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

The Wai — Tai Wai

Unlike other CNY displays in Hong Kong, The Wai takes the opportunity to showcase the history and culture of Tai Wai. While this residential area may be less known to tourists, it is famous for its village culture, especially traditional festivities and special snacks. Explore four thematic zones: Peach Blossom Tree for Lunar New Year, Prosperity in All Trades Floral Decoration, Tai Wai Flavours and Tai Wai Cultural Experience Zone, and learn a bit more about Tai Wai’s rich traditions.

When: Now until March 2, 2025
Where: L2 Atrium, The Wai, Tai Wai
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Header image credits: Citygate Outlets

Apple

An apple a day keeps the doctor away! One of the most desired wishes for the new year is for you and your loved ones to be safe and sound, staying out of harm’s way and misfortune. This is where apples come into play for the Lunar New Year. Apples represent harmony and peace because when they’re pronounced in Cantonese, they sound the same as the word for ‘peace‘ (ping, 平). The more apples consumed, the more security granted. Apples can be found laid out on platters when visiting homes during the holiday. Green apples represent money while red apples signify prosperity and abundance.

Cherries

In preparation for the Lunar New Year celebrations, remember to pick up a batch of cherries to top off your holiday. Similar to pomelos, cherries ripen just in time for Chinese New Year and have become an in-demand fruit during this particular time when large shipments are imported from countries, like Chile and Australia. Over time, cherries have become a status symbol in China and indicate success, while its dark red colour also represents happiness and love. Cherries are the perfect fruits to share with your friends and family!

Citrus fruits 

Among the many fruits consumed over the holiday, citrus fruits take the helm. Citrus fruits like Lunar New Year oranges, mandarins, tangerines, and kumquats are known to bring good luck. Kumquat trees are notoriously seen in most places, like at the entrance of homes and shops, and are given as gifts. The round shape of these citrus fruits symbolises completeness and the yellow hue resembles the sun, bringing positivity and abundance. Pronunciation-wise, mandarins sound like “gold” (gum, 柑) in Cantonese and oranges sound like “successfully done” (chaang, 成) in Mandarin. When gift-giving, keep in mind to never give things in four, as the number four sounds like death (sei, 死).

Grapes

Grapes are another fruit traditionally embraced in Chinese New Year celebrations, indicating abundance and good fortune. Coming in bunches, they represent a bountiful harvest, and gifting grapes means wishing fruitful luck to others. Whether purple, denoting respect and elegance, or green for vitality and prosperity, grapes are cherished symbols of luck, wealth, and fertility. Nowadays, you can easily find grapes, especially those came from Japan, in premium packages at supermarkets, making them a decent choice of gift (together with lai see).

Longans

The Chinese name for longans, 龍眼 (lung ngaan), literally translates to “Dragon eyes”; their other name, 桂圓 (gwai jyun), indicates family reunification and a perfect life, making them a traditional fruit for Chinese New Year. Their round shape and sweet flavour are believed to bring happiness, too. Longans are also thought to aid blood circulation and body balance, so enjoy them fresh, or add dried longans to a cup of healthy tea with red dates.

Persimmon

As with most Chinese New Year fruits we’ve seen, most of them, if not all, represent good luck. The same applies to persimmons. Persimmons bring good luck and symbolise longevity. It’s believed in Chinese tradition that this delectable fruit aligns with the saying about how everything goes according to your wishes. Persimmons also symbolise joy and are given as gifts to spread joy. They are eaten alone or featured in cakes as a relish. Eat more of the fruit, and the greater the chances that things will go in your favour.

Pineapple

Not only are they great in cocktails and pastries, but pineapples also hold a wealth of greatness when it comes to their symbolic meaning. The golden pineapple’s Chinese name sounds like “Wealth, come”, hence, to devour the fruit means to bring in loads of prosperity and abundance. In some Chinese households, notably in Singapore, families roll in the pineapple while shouting a phrase in Hokkien that means “to prosper”, and rather than eating the fruit, pineapples would be left under a tree to denote the continuous flow of prosperity. Alongside bringing in prosperity, pineapples are known to keep the sweetness in life flowing.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are sweet, tangy treats that go well as condiments with desserts or breakfast yogurts, but are also enjoyed on their own. They’re known for their many seeds when opened. And, when translated into Chinese auspicious terms, the seeds have come to represent fertility. These are popular fruits given to newlyweds to encourage them to produce more offspring, and it’s also interesting to note that Buddha is often portrayed to be holding pomegranates. Other symbolic meanings for pomegranates include longevity and prosperity for their brilliant red colour.

Pomelo

A Lunar New Year fruit that’s prevalent in a Chinese New Year fruit basket is pomelo. Pomelos are seasonal fruits that ripen right before the festive holiday. Hence, these juicy fruits are symbolic of family unity. Pomelos share the same pronunciation as “have” when sounded out in Cantonese (yau, 有), thus, these fruits also represent prosperity and abundance as to have something is enriching by nature. It only makes sense, then, that the more one consumes pomelo, the wealthier one becomes. Another shared pronunciation is for the Cantonese word “protect”(佑), so eating the fruit offers families protection for the new year. Other auspicious meanings of pomelos include good health and fertility.

Red Dragonfruit

Red dragonfruits are possibly considered one of the most auspicious fruits for Chinese New Year because for one, they’re red, and two, the word “dragon” is in their name. Both the colour red and the mythical animal dragons are known to symbolise good luck. Red dragonfruits have a beautiful red coat with pinkish hues, and are also known to represent beauty. Their mildly sweet flavour is also perfect as gifts to give to those who want to steer clear of sugar-high fruits. Enjoy these exotic fruits and have a prosperous new year!

Header image credits: ShutterOK via Canva

Lunar New Year Fair at Victoria Park

The Victoria Park fair is one of the season’s most iconic events and typically runs for seven days leading up to Lunar New Year. It’s the biggest of all the fairs held during this time in the territory and will be the only one of its kind on Hong Kong Island.

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This year’s edition of the fair will have 383 stalls. Locals and visitors can browse through stalls selling a wide variety of goodies — think festive décor, red envelopes (lai see), Chinese New Year flowers, snacks and street food, handmade crafts, and toys. Some stalls also sell creative items inspired by current trends, making them popular spots for buying souvenirs and taking pics for social media.

Other Lunar New Year fairs in Hong Kong

The 14 other fairs will be set up at different locations in Kowloon, New Territories and the Islands District and will have more than 900 stalls selling wet and dry goods and fast food. Some of the more popular fairs include the ones at Cheung Sha Wan Playground and Fa Hui Park in Sham Shui Po, as well as the fairs at Man Yee Playground in Sai Kung and Tsz Wan Shan Estate Central Playground in Wong Tai Sin.

Hong Kong will also be ground zero for a host of other Chinese New Year events, from the annual Lunar New Year fireworks display and the lantern carnival, to the Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival at Lam Tsuen and the Chinese New Year Race Day at Sha Tin. 

Image credits: Hong Kong Tourism Board

Lee Tung Avenue — January 14-March 2, 2025

Over 800 lanterns will illuminate Lee Tung Avenue from January 14 to March 2, including golden lanterns symbolising prosperity and good fortune. Enjoy traditional lion dance performances and the grand Dragon and Lion Dance Spectacular. For two weekends, the venue will also host the Joyful Charity CNY Chill Fest, offering festive snacks and handwritten spring couplets. Visit their website and social media for the full programme of festivities.

When: January 14 to March 2
Where: Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Hong Kong Disneyland — January 17-February 16, 2025

Hong Kong Disneyland’s Magical Year After Year Chinese New Year Celebration runs from January 17 to February 16, 2025. Join the brand-new ‘Mickey and Friends Year of the Snake Processional’, featuring God of Fortune Goofy, Mulan, and Mickey in festive outfits. Dance along during the Mickey & Friends Street Celebration on Main Street, U.S.A., and meet your favourite Disney friends at Fantasy Gardens or the Duffy and Friends Play House. On the first day of CNY, guests can collect a Disney-themed red packet with dining and shopping vouchers, available while stocks last.

When: January 17-February 16, 2025
Where: Hong Kong Disneyland, Lantau Island
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

PANDA GO! FEST Chinese New Year Stop — January 17-March 6, 2025

Riding on the panda craze, PANDA GO! FEST HK will return for its Chinese New Year stop from January 17 to March 6! This time, over 800 panda sculptures inspired by Hong Kong’s own panda family, including brand new festive designs, will be displayed at D·PARK and Central Market. The real-looking ‘PANDA GO! GUIDE’ will also make a special appearance on January 19 at D·PARK to meet and take pictures with the public.

When: January 17-March 6, 2025 (D·PARK) | February 17-March 6, 2025 (Central Market)
Where: D·PARK, 398 Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan and Central Market, 93 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Tickets: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Lunar New Year Fairs — January 23-29, 2025

Looking to shop for fresh flowers and festive decor? Find everything you need and more at any of the 15 Lunar New Year Fairs across the city. Held during the week leading up to the holiday, from January 23 to 29 this year, the fairs feature booths offering wet goods, dry goods, and themed snacks. The flower markets will remain open overnight on the final day for last-minute shoppers, with the largest fair taking place at Victoria Park.

When: January 23-29, 2025
Where: 15 locations across Hong Kong in Causeway Bay, Cheung Sha Wan, Prince Edward, Kwun Tong, Wong Tai Sin, Tsuen Wan, Kwai Fong, Sha Tin, Sai Kung, Tseung Kwan O, Tai Po, Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Sheung Shui, Tung Chung
Contact: Website

Lunar New Year Lantern Carnival 2025 — January 23-February 16, 2025

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department will host a lantern exhibition at the piazza of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre from January 23 to February 16, during which the lanterns will be illuminated every evening. In addition, a 5-day lantern carnival will take place from February 7 to 12, featuring a programme of exhibitions and performances. There will also be miscellaneous lanterns displayed around the outdoor piazza throughout the festive period. Look forward to big, bright, and beautifully crafted lanterns in animal shapes.

When: Lantern Display: January 23-February 16, 2025 (lanterns lit from 6pm-11pm | Lantern Carnival: February 7-12, 2025
Where: Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Contact: Website

InnerGlow — January 26-February 14, 2025

The fourth edition of InnerGlow will see the return of 3D architectural projections on the façade at Tai Kwun’s Parade Ground. This year’s Chinese zodiac sign, the Snake, will join the centerpiece: Garden of Reflection, created by The Electric Canvas and local new media artist Hung Keung. The piece explores Hong Kong literature, calligraphy and nature, while examining the relationship between traditional Chinese characters and contemporary digital art.

When: January 26-February 14, 2025, Every half hour between 6:30pm-9:00pm
Where: Parade Ground & Prison Yard, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

First Incense Offering At Wong Tai Sin Temple — January 28-29, 2025

One of Hong Kong’s most cherished Chinese New Year traditions is making the first incense offering of the year at Wong Tai Sin Temple, the city’s largest Taoist temple. Each year, visitors gather outside to collect incense sticks before rushing to the altar to honour the Great Immortal Wong, to whom the shrine is dedicated. This year, the temple will open at 9:00pm on January 28, with incense offerings taking place from 11:00pm to 12:00am, marking the start of the Lunar New Year. The temple will remain open overnight until 9:00pm on January 29.

From January 30 to February 27, Sik Sik Yuen announced that those born in the Year of the Snake, Pig, Tiger, or Monkey can visit for free to perform bai tai sui, a ritual to pray for a smooth year, as these zodiac signs clash with the annual zodiac.

When: The temple will open at 9:00pm on January 28 to 9:00pm on January 29
Where: 2 Chuk Yuen Village, Wong Tai Sin
Contact: Website

Chinese New Year Night Parade — January 29, 2025

On the first day of Chinese New Year, head to Tsim Sha Tsui for the night parade. The event will feature nine themed floats, including a Hong Kong Disneyland float, a LINE FRIENDS float, and a panda-themed float by Ocean Park. The international line-up includes performers from 14 countries and regions, such as South Korean girl group Kep1er, Thai boy group LYKN, and the Shaanxi Performing Arts Troupe, known for their appearances at the 14th National Games of China. Surrounding roads in Tsim Sha Tsui will be closed in the afternoon. Street performances start at 6:00 pm, with the main show kicking off at 8:00 pm.

When: January 29, 2025, 8:00pm-9.45pm
Where: Starting from Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, Canton Road, Haiphong Road, Nathan Road and finishing at Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers
Contact: Website | Instagram

Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival — January 29-February 4, 2025

An integral part of Hong Kong’s Chinese New Year festivities is the Well-Wishing Festival. Write your wishes for the year — along with your name and date of birth — on a placard, tie it to a mandarin, and toss it into the branches of the legendary banyan wishing tree. The higher the mandarin lands, the greater the chance your wish will come true! Introduced last year, the festival also features a night market with stage performances, a luminous lion dance, and beautifully illuminated trees.

When: January 29-February 4, 2025
Where: Lam Tsuen Heung Kung Sho Road, Lam Tsuen, Tai Po
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Lunar New Year Fireworks Display — January 30, 2025

Another major Chinese New Year celebration is the annual Lunar New Year fireworks display, which will be held on the second day of CNY on January 30. The show will last for 23 minutes, featuring nine scenes created with 23,888 pyrotechnic shells. Inspired by Chinese culture and recent Hong Kong events, the show will highlight figure-eight and panda-heads fireworks.

Want to find the best spot in town to watch the show? Read our guide on where to watch fireworks for free in Hong Kong.

When: January 30, 2025, 8:00pm-9:45pm
Where: Victoria Harbour

Chinese New Year Race Day — January 31, 2025

On the third day of the Lunar New Year, head to Sha Tin Racecourse for the Chinese New Year Raceday! Test your luck with 10 horse races, including the 1400-metre race, the 2000-metre race, and the Chinese New Year Cup. Beyond the excitement on the track, enjoy live entertainment, interactive games, and performances featuring the God of Wealth and Cantopop singer Hins Cheung.

When: January 30, 2025, from 11:15am onwards
Where: Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Chinese New Year Cup — February 1, 2025

The FWD Insurance Chinese New Year Cup 2025 will take place at Hong Kong Stadium for the final time on the fourth day of the Lunar New Year. This annual invitational tournament will see two star-studded teams — the World Legends and Hong Kong Legends — face off in a friendly match. The international line-up includes Kaká, David Silva, and Rivaldo, while the Hong Kong team will have Leslie Santos, Lee Kin Wo, and Chan Chi Hong.

When: February 1, 2025, 8:00pm
Where: Hong Kong Stadium, 55 Eastern Hospital Road, So Kon Po
Contact: Instagram

More stories about Chinese New Year

Header image credits: galitskaya via Freepik, Lee Tung Avenue, Hong Kong Tourism Board

What is the lion dance?

The lion dance is a traditional performance in Hong Kong and many Asian countries, and is popular during Lunar New Year and events like business openings. With the global spread of the Chinese diaspora, lion dances are now a common sight in Chinatowns worldwide, celebrating culture and tradition with vibrant performances.

It features highly skilled performers who are typically martial arts practitioners dancing to the beat of drums, cymbals, and gongs. Nothing short of a spectacle, each move builds suspense with its jaw-dropping, bewildering, and grandiose effects. The trained dancers’ movements mimic the lion’s fierceness and power, including how a lion walks and kung fu elements. The flamboyant lion costume features two parts – the head and the rest of the body – sported by two people on each end.

The head is normally oversized, sometimes weighing 5kg, and constructed using a bamboo frame or wood. The front portion is plastered with sandpaper, gauze, and artificial fur. The rest of the costume is dressed in coloured cloth and synthetic fur. Dancers wear complementing pants to blend in and finish the fully covered look. Overall, the look is shaggy, like the king of the jungle, yet vibrant and texture.

The lion dance has different styles that stem from the northern and southern regions of Asia.

The Northern style popular in Beijing, Hebei, and Shanxi boasts a more playful and relaxed performance that displays a strong bond of family unity. Oftentimes, this style features two adult lions and two cubs that playfully tease each other to highlight happiness.

The Southern style originating from Guangdong Province features more energized and acrobatic movements that are a testament to the strength and boldness of a lion. This style is more notable in Hong Kong.

Lion dance VS dragon dance : what are the differences?

The lion dance features specialized dancers with expertise in martial arts dressing in a roaring costume, physically and energetically. On the contrary, the dragon dance has a more suave and relaxed appearance; it’s also done with more than two performers.

These performers don’t need to dress as dragons themselves as the dragon body is perched atop poles that they lift up in the air. This particular dance stresses smooth footwork more than anything. Given the length a dragon costume can go, a string of dancers and their coordination are required for this dance.

How did the lion dance originate?

The origins of the lion dance have been widely debated. Multiple stories have emerged in common discourse, one being about an emperor who dreamt of a creature saving his life; when describing its appearance, the emperor said that the creature resembled a lion. And from then on, the lion became known to spearhead good luck.

Nonetheless, there is a common denominator in the various narratives. Dating back to the Han Dynasty (202 BC – 220 AD), lions were considered to be mythical creatures, as there was no known evidence of their existence at the time. It wasn’t until the great trades from the establishment of the Silk Road that lions were discovered in the Western regions of China and brought to the Central Plains as gifts to emperors.

From then on, lions became a significant part in the molding of Chinese culture. People began mimicking the appearance and nature of lions in performances, which then carried forward into the Three Kingdoms Period, the Northern and Southern dynasties when the rise of Buddhism took place, and into the Tang Dynasty when the lion dance was used as a court dance.

Since then, the lion dance evolved into a lavish performance fit for big celebrations and holidays.

What does the lion dance symbolise?

The lion itself symbolises power, strength, stability, and superiority. Its majestic nature warrants these enduring adjectives which only makes sense that people see it as a creature of good luck and blessings. This paves the way for the lion dance. The lion dance symbolises good luck, abundance and prosperity while the loud and boisterous clanging noise is believed to drive away bad luck and evil spirits.

Within the dance performance, the audience may observe the lion being fed lettuce. The notable feature is part of the Southern style and is symbolic because the word for lettuce, saang choi (生菜) in Cantonese and sheng cai (生菜) in Mandarin, sounds similar to the word for wealth. The dancers then spit the lettuce out as a way to shower people with good luck.

Where to see lion dances in Hong Kong?

The lion dance is most prominent during Chinese New Year. Given the widely spread holiday spanning two weeks, the lion dance is seen almost everywhere – at homes, offices, malls, parks, temples, and even on the streets. And good thing, we have listed where to see lion dances in Hong Kong for you.

The lion dance is also commonly seen at new business openings. Store owners invite a team of lion dancers to perform at the opening to bring in good luck, prosperity, and more business. Though not the same thing as the lion dance, the similar Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance is worth mentioning. This annual event occurs during the Mid-Autumn Festival, with origins borne out of tumultuous times in 19th-century Hong Kong.

Lion dances around the world

The lion dance grew in popularity since its aforementioned origins, spreading to other parts of Asia and even worldwide through the Asian diaspora.

In Korea, the lion dance (a.k.a. Bukcheong lion dance) is less a dance and more a folk play. It hails from the Bukcheong region in North Korea featuring two people dressed in a brownish costume with a lion mask conducting the powerful moves of a lion. The dance is performed alongside music played from a bamboo recorder and is followed by other dance performances by adults and children.

In Vietnam, the lion dance bears similar, if not the same, resemblance to the Chinese version of the lion dance.

In Tibet, the performance features a snow lion being a mythical creature as it’s represented on the Tibetan flag. The dance is playful and simple compared to the Chinese version.

All the lion dances across the different countries hold the symbolic meaning of ridding the community of bad luck and evil spirits, and bringing in good luck and prosperity.

Header image credits: Kurayba via Flickr

Why? Flowers are a pretty sight, but for Chinese people, each flower has a symbolic meaning that is believed to usher in the values that it represents. Before heading to Lunar New Year Fairs to shop, scroll through to discover the meaning of essential Chinese New Year flowers.

Bamboo

Often associated with pandas or building scaffolding in Hong Kong, bamboo plants (fu gwai juk or fù guì zhú, 富貴竹) during the New Year are believed to bring good luck and fortune. Their sturdiness indicates strength. Easy to care for, they sometimes grow in unique twists and turns. The number of stalks represents different blessings; for example, two stalks is double luck, and five stalks is overall good health. However, four stalks are never gifted, as the number four (si, 四) sounds similar to the Chinese word for “death” (si, 死).

How to care: Place it in a bright and well-ventilated location, and be diligent in changing the water and pruning excess leaves and rotten roots. Avoid environments that are too cold or placing it too close to electrical appliances.

Chrysanthemum

In Chinese traditions, chrysanthemums (guk fa or jú huā, 菊花) symbolise wealth and longevity. Traditionally given to seniors, they’re available in bright colours like Berry red and Canary yellow, and the golden yellow ones are especially thought to attract wealth. Their wide range of colours and round shape make them a favourite for festive decor during Lunar New Year.

How to care: Regularly repot them in a flowerpot larger than the previous one to give the roots more room to grow. Also, apply diluted fertiliser every ten days.

Gladiolus

Gladiolus (gim laan or jiànlán, 劍蘭), also known as the Sword Lily, features an abundant number of blossoms on a single branch. It’s a beautiful flower for home decor, coming in colours like white for purity, red for passionate love, yellow for cheerfulness, and purple for grace. The gladiolus means career growth and self-development. These flowers bloom from July into early winter, reflecting their symbolic meaning in Chinese culture. For Chinese New Year, the fiery red gladiolus is most in demand!

How to care: Appropriately trim the bottom of the flower stems and fertilise, ensuring plenty of sunlight. Change the water daily to prevent root rot.

Jade Plant

Bearing resemblance to the auspicious meanings of plants discussed so far, jade plants (yuk syu or yù shù, 玉樹) symbolise prosperity, wealth, and fortune. Native to South Africa, they are highly regarded for their leaves that look like jade stones, hence the prosperous meaning they hold. Taking on a tree-like form, jade plants are easy to care for, as they fall under the succulent family and require minimal attention. Their longevity and self-sustaining nature also mean strength.

How to care: Jade plants thrive in bright light, so ensure there is sufficient lighting to aid their photosynthesis. These plants are highly drought-tolerant and prefer a dry environment. Ensure the pot used provides adequate drainage and aeration.

Lily

In the language of flowers, lilies (baak hap or bǎihé, 百合) indicate purity and passionate love. Their Chinese name means’hundred years of good union’, making them a beautiful way to wish for enduring love and joy. Beloved for their elegance, noble look and sweet fragrance, they are a festive favourite. During Chinese New Year, lilies in shades of pink, yellow, orange, and red are more popular than white ones.

How to care: Change water every two or three days, allow plenty of sunlight and ventilation, and prune appropriately. Don’t place too many lily stems in the same vase.

Mandarin & Tangerine Trees

In the month leading up to Chinese New Year, it’s a common sighting to see lots of plants containing tangerines (gwat ji or jú zǐ, 金桔), mandarin oranges, or kumquats. These lucky plants are typically ordered in bulk in advance to place by the entrance of homes, buildings, and stores. The column-like Chinese New Year plants represent good luck and wealth, with the more fruit the trees bear, the more luck and wealth they bring. Placing them at your front door ensures that people walking into your home bring in good luck. And the bright orange colours and aromatic citrus smell just brighten the entire atmosphere.

How to care: Allow sufficient sunlight and make sure the water reaches the bottom when watering. Avoid placing them in dark corners of the room.

Narcissus

Narcissus (seui sin or shuǐxiān, 水仙) has a delicate look and smell, no wonder they are among the most auspicious for Lunar New Year. Also known as water fairy flowers or daffodils, they represent good fortune and prosperity. Growing rapidly in warm temperatures, it’s recommended to purchase them just before CNY so they can be in full bloom during the holiday. Fun fact, their outlook often reminds people of a sunny-side-up egg!

How to care: Change water every few days and allow sufficient sunlight. Using a steel pot or placing them close to fruits may lead to fall rapidly.

Orchid

Orchids (laan fa or lánhuā, 蘭花) are delicate and graceful plants that make perfect gifts during Chinese New Year. The quintessential Lunar New Year flowers represent fertility and abundance, as well as good taste, beauty, luxury and innocence. Resilient plants, orchids bloom in multiple seasons: the fall, winter and spring. They come in different colours, with yellow symbolising friendship, white symbolising purity, and pink symbolising femininity. Though orchids tend to be on the pricier side, they are arguably the most cherished plant displayed during the new year.

How to care: Avoid direct sunlight; instead, place it in a corner with indirect light and good ventilation. Pay attention to overwatering.

Peach Blossoms

Whether as a whole tree or as branches, peach blossoms (tou faa or táohuā, 桃花) are cherished floral decorations during Lunar New Year, symbolising romance, prosperity, and growth. In Chinese society, a belief holds that walking three circles clockwise around a peach blossom tree will bring romance to those seeking love and enhance your social life in general, while walking anticlockwise diminishes one’s romantic and social relationships. These flowers are prominently displayed in shopping centres and streets during the festivities.

How to care: Remove withered flower buds and newly grown green leaves, and allow sufficient water.

Peonies

Peonies (maau daan or Mǔdān, 牡丹), also known as the “flower of riches and honour”, hold a special place in Chinese culture that represents wealth, honour, and prosperity. With their round and full appearance in full bloom, in particular the bright red ones, peonies are a great choice for decoration during Chinese New Year. Their rich and abundant presence adds a touch of auspiciousness to the festive atmosphere.

How to care: Peonies require very little water, as excessive water can cause the stems to rot and the flower buds to drop. You can even add a drop of bleach to prevent an unpleasant smell.

Pussy Willows

No, it has nothing to do with body parts or cats. Pussy willows (ngan lau or yín liǔ, 銀柳) represent growth and incoming prosperity, and it marks the start of spring. Their tall and slender shape allows them to sustain for extended periods with only bi-weekly watering. Normally, pussy willows come in grey and white, but sometimes, florists get creative by adding a dash of colour to the furry buds that make them stand out for CNY. They bloom in early spring and make fascinating houseplants to welcome new beginnings at the beginning of the lunar year.

How to care: Water them bi-weekly and the buds will grow and eventually develop into flowers. Alternatively, they are also great for dried flowers.

Solanum Mammosum

Also known as “nipplefruits, “fox head”, “cow’s udder”, or “apple of Sodom”, solanum mammosum plants are commonly found in wet markets and shops during Chinese New Year. In Cantonese, they are called ng doi tung tong (or wǔ dài tóng táng in Putunghua, 五代同堂), which literally translates to “Five Generations Living Together”, indicating longevity for the family. However, despite its beautiful golden colour, be aware that this fruit is inedible and poisonous.

How to care: Keep the fruits on the branch and allow sufficient ventilation.

Where To Buy Lunar New Year Plants

Ready to decorate your home with festive flowers, trees, or plants? Apart from visiting the Lunar New Year Fairs, which open a week before the festival, head to the Flower Market in Mong Kok. Here, you’ll find a range of plants, as well as gardening accessories and supplies. Short on time for preparation? Our Best Flower Shops guide offers ideas on where to order the freshest flowers and plants ahead of Chinese New Year.

Header image credits: blackred via Canva

Chinese New Year Night Parade — January 29, 2025

Every year, the first day of the Lunar New Year highlights the Chinese New Year Night Parade. On this day, roads in Tsim Sha Tsui, starting at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, will be closed for the event. Before the main show, a massive street party will warm up the audience, featuring a lion dance performance by the Chinese Martial Arts Dragon and Lion Dance Association. Arrive early to secure a free viewing spot and enjoy performances by other acts, including the Hong Kong Rope Skipping Club, Vigor Marching Band, and an appearance by South Korean girl group Kep1er.

Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Where: Start at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, go along Canton Road, Haiphong Road and Nathan Road, and finish at the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel and Towers
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

The Peninsula Hong Kong — January 29 & February 1, 2025

The iconic Peninsula Hong Kong will host grand dragon and lion dance performances on the first and fourth days of the Lunar New Year. On January 29 and February 1, head to the hotel’s lobby to witness the awakening ritual, where nine lions and one dragon are ‘brought to life,’ followed by a choreographed performance that blesses guests and hotel staff with good fortune for the year ahead.

Date: January 29 & February 1, 2025
Time: 9:30am on Jan 29, 8:00am on Feb 1
Where: 22 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Ngong Ping Village — January 29-February 2, 2025

One of the most important activities during Lunar New Year is visiting temples to pray for good luck in the coming year. If you plan to visit the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery between January 29 and February 2, don’t miss the lion dance performances at Ngong Ping Village. The show was held twice daily at 12:30pm and 3:30pm, along with a worship ceremony to bring prosperity and positive energy for the new year. The village also features a variety of entertainment, unique shops, and dining options.

Date: January 29-February 2, 2025
Time: 12:30pm and 3:30pm
Where: Ngong Ping Village, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival — January 29-February 4, 2025

The Hong Kong Well-wishing Festival in Lam Tsuen is a beloved Chinese New Year tradition among locals. Running from January 29 to February 12, visitors can toss placards onto the Wishing Tree or light wishing lanterns to seek good fortune. Introduced last year, the festival now features night markets and performances, with the luminous lion dance as a highlight. The night market also offers illuminated trees, glowing placards, and delicious food. Be sure to visit the New Year market, floats exhibition, carnival games, and various live performances during the day.

Date: Night market from January 29-February 4, 2025
Time: 7:00pm-10:00pm
Where: Lam Tsuen Heung Kung Sho Road, Lam Tsuen, Tai Po
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

AIA Carnival — January 29-February 5, 2025

Come visit the Hong Kong’s largest carnival this Lunar New Year! Apart from over 28 thrilling rides and 30 exciting game booths, the carnival will host a series of festive celebrations: it all kicks off with a grand lion dance parade on January 29 at 12:30pm, followed by daily lion dance performances at 3:30pm. You can also enjoy Canto Disco, Chinese New Year-themed plush toy giveaways, as well as the Baby Rave and cultural parties at the Blue Girl Dai Pai Dong.

Date: January 29-February 5, 2025
Time: 12:30pm on January 29; 3:30pm from January 30-February 5, 2025
Where: Central Harbourfront, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Lee Tung Avenue — January 29-February 1&7, 2025

During the first four days of Chinese New Year, traditional lion dances will take place at Lee Tung Avenue, with festive food distributed to spectators. Additionally, the Dragon and Lion Dance Spectacular returns on February 7, featuring eye-dotting rituals, bamboo stunts, and a golden dragon leading a vibrant street parade. Stroll under a canopy of over 800 lanterns, visit the Joyful Charity CNY Chill Fest market by The Salvation Army, and enjoy special events dedicated to traditional Chinese wedding culture.

Date: January 29-February 1 & 7, 2025
Time: 2:00pm-3:00pm on Jan 29, 4:30pm-5:30pm on Jan 30&31, 4:00pm-5:00pm on Feb 1, 11:00am-1:00pm on Feb 7
Where: 200 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Sha Tin Racecourse — January 31, 2025

Test your New Year luck at Chinese New Year Raceday! On the third day of CNY, the event will take place at Sha Tin Racecourse. At 11:15 am, the God of Fortune and jockeys will join a traditional lion dance to bless visitors, followed by a performance by popular Cantopop singer Hins Cheung. The day features three major races: the Centenary Vase, the Chinese New Year Cup, and the First Leg of the Four-Year-Old Classic Series – Hong Kong Classic Mile, starting from 2:00 pm onwards.

Date: January 31, 2025
Time: 11:15am
Where: 6001 Tai Po Road, Sha Tin
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Happy Valley Racecourse — February 5, 2025

Ring in the Chinese New Year at Happy Valley Racecourse’s Happy Wednesday Blossom Nights, happening on January 22, February 5, and February 19. Alongside thrilling horse racing and festive decorations, a must-see highlight is the LED lion dance. Starting at 6:00 pm on February 5, enjoy this spectacular show accompanied by a performance from the top-notch live band OnPoint at the Beer Garden. Don’t miss the chance to play games with the God of Wealth and win red packets! Each Blossom Night offers a list of festivities, visit Happy Wednesday’s website to learn more.

Date: February 5, 2025
Time: 6:00pm
Where: Beer Garden, Wong Nai Chung Road, Happy Valley
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

AIRSIDE — February 8, 2025

This Chinese New Year, AIRSIDE brings traditional Chinese legends to life with its Blessings of the Magical Guardians installation. Symbolising prosperity and fortune, the four mythical beasts: the dragon, kirin, phoenix, and tortoise, grace The Atrium. On February 8, enjoy lion dance parades at 1:00pm, and the following day, watch as the legendary beasts ‘come alive’ for an auspicious performance! The mall has also prepared a supersized Snakes & Ladders game and Lunar New Year Markets for you to explore.

Date: February 8, 2025.
Time: 1:00-1:30pm
Where: The Atrium, AIRSIDE, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook 

Citygate Outlets — February 12, 2025

Citygate Outlets teamed up with KITKAT in the ‘Catch the Luck’ Chinese New Year celebration from January 10 to February 16. An Auspicious Lion Dance Parade is set to happen on February 12, the last day of 15-day festival. Watch as golden lions leap energetically during the eye-dotting ceremony, followed by a lively parade featuring Kwok’s Kung Fu & Dragon Lion Dance Team. Other highlights of the event include eight Lucky Cat and Daruma installations, interactive AI games, WhatsApp sticker creation, and traditional Japanese New Year dances on the second day of CNY. 

Date: February 12, 2025
Time: Eye-dotting Ceremony at 10:50am and Lion Dance Parade from 2:00pm-6:00pm
Where: 20 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2109 2933

Header image credit: cheeyong via Canva

Chinese Knots (中國結)

Once a way to historically record information, Chinese knots are now an intricately woven handicraft made of one cord that’s iconic among Chinese New Year decorations. Not straying from the lucky red colour we’ve seen so far in the festive décor, Chinese knots symbolize a prosperous, long life. The knots are normally round to indicate completeness and wholesomeness. And, the fact that they’re knotted also portrays a strong, united bond with your loved ones. Chinese knots can be seen as ornaments hung on doors, walls, and around shops. They come in all sizes, so it won’t be hard to spot this eye-catching gem.

Fai Chun (揮春)

When visiting friends and relatives from door to door during the holiday, the first thing spotted are fai chuns. Fai chun, also known as door couplets, are the red strips of paper hung at the entrances of homes featuring a calligraphy of characters denoting success, good luck, and fortune. One character in particular, fuk (福), which means good fortune, is often times hung upside down on a diamond-shaped sheet of paper to signify the pouring of good luck onto the individual. These lucky sayings are usually hung in pairs in auspicious regards, but can also double or quadruple the luck.

Firecrackers (鞭炮)

To amp up the loud and boisterous festivities, firecrackers are one display that is hard to miss. Firecrackers are set up in front of stores and businesses, as well as temples, to drive out bad luck and evil spirits. Legend has it that a monster comes out every New Year’s Eve to destroy a village and, to scare off the monster, burning bamboo to produce an explosive sound does the trick. The fiery and smoky display literally starts the year with a bang. It’s important to note that the red paper left from the firecrackers aren’t immediately swept away because doing so means sweeping away good luck and fortune.

Chinese Lanterns (燈籠)

Red Chinese lanterns are a prominent staple in Chinese culture, and perhaps the most striking emblem associated with Lunar New Year. They spark the new year festivities with their jovial aesthetics, but also create such a beautiful visage at night when lit that it’s no wonder they’re a symbol for happiness. The Chinese lanterns are known to ward off evil and bad luck and their red colour is associated with good luck. Find them at home, temples, as pop-up displays inside malls and on the streets.

Lunar New Year Flowers

Spring Festival brings with it fresh beginnings and fresh flowers! There are a number of blooming flowers and plants that represent a new, prosperous year ahead. Several favourites are mandarin or kumquat trees, cherry blossoms, bamboo, and orchids. Kumquat orange trees are quintessential Chinese New Year decorations seen almost everywhere during the festivities. The fruits represent prosperity as kumquat sounds the same as “gold” and “good luck” in Chinese.

Cherry blossoms are springtime flowers that represent new beginnings and longevity with their long branches. Tai Po waterfront is a popular spot to view these beauties. Bamboo is another floral décor known to bring in good luck and fortune. Their sturdy build also symbolizes strength. Orchids are elegant-looking flowers that sustain throughout every season. They make for beautiful gifts during Spring Festival as they represent abundance, fertility, luxury, and beauty.

New Year Paintings (年畫)

New Year greetings! New Year paintings arose from the Tang Dynasty with pictures that told of Chinese tales and folklores of gods protecting the people from evil. Over time, Chinese New Year paintings evolved into simpler images that go hand-in-hand with fai chun, with beautifully written calligraphy, legendary figures, and plants. A common sighting is the zodiac animal of the year with the Chinese character of that animal also written. Other images may depict dragons, gold coins, and imagery that hold auspicious meanings for good blessings.

Paper Cuttings (剪紙)

Using scissors and knife to cut paper into symbols and characters is a fun-filled pastime activity to rally in your troops. The cuttings typically feature one character in Chinese folk art tradition or an image that represents wishes and desires for the coming year. Characters include Fu (福), Lu (祿), Shou (寿), and Xi (禧), meaning luck, wealth, longevity, and happiness. Other paper cuttings feature the zodiac animal representing the new year, or fruits with auspicious meanings. These detailed depictions are then pasted onto transparent surfaces and windows, just like an ornament. Though time-consuming, nowadays, some people opt for the modern version of paper cuttings made of plastic.

Red Packet Tree (紅包樹)

A modern take on traditional Spring Festival decorations are red packet trees. Red packets, or lai see in Cantonese, are notorious for being filled with lucky money that’s gifted to friends and relatives. Hence, adding a creative twist to Chinese New Year trees, Chinese New Year wreaths and other plants are red packet trees, or better termed, money trees. They symbolize wealth and good fortune. Red packets can also be found hanging on kumquat trees to bring in extra abundance, and come in various sizes and designs. If you want a boost of luck through your Lunar New Year decorations, you can’t go wrong by decking out in more red and lucky money.

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Visit Lunar New Year fairs

Running from January 23-29, 15 Lunar New Year fairs across Hong Kong will feature dry goods, wet goods, and food stalls, drawing locals eager to partake themselves in the celebration. Situated in different districts in Hong Kong, they are normally open air markets flooded with stalls selling Chinese New Year decor, trinkets, flowers, candy, and snacks. It’s a fiery sight to see with lots of red that fits the highly fuelled aura of the atmosphere.

Buy New Clothes

The Lunar New Year emphasizes newness. Before the holiday officially begins, expect shopping malls to be jam-packed with people scurrying to buy new things. In particular, new festive clothes are a must. To wear a fresh set of clothes on the first day of the holiday symbolizes starting on a clean slate. Something noteworthy to mention is to never buy shoes. The word “shoes” has similar pronunciation to the word “rough” and the exasperated exclamation “Hai!” in Chinese, so buying them potentially brings bad luck.

Buy Plants With Auspicious Meanings

Fresh plants and flowers are bought for Chinese New Year. Not only do they represent fresh starts, certain flowers have auspicious meanings. Orchids are popular flowers to gift as they represent prosperity, luck and for those who want children, fertility. They make for beautiful home décor and come in various colours. Mandarins and kumquats are the most common fruits seen in plant-like form and are usually placed at the front of homes. They represent abundance, prosperity, wealth, and unity.

Clean Your House

It’s time to declutter! Chinese New Year is the time to clean out your space as a sign of new beginnings, dusting away dirt and debris and making room for a breath of fresh air. Cleaning house is a traditional CNY custom that symbolizes getting rid of bad luck from the previous year that may hinder fresh, new energy. Do note that cleaning must be done before the eve of the holiday because doing so during the holiday may sweep out incoming good luck!

Put Up Festive Decorations

Seeing red? Red is a lucky and auspicious colour for Chinese New Year. Red represents good luck, passion and prosperity. Chinese legend also explains how red decoration scared away a demon from massacring a village, so the colour is also symbolic of warding off evil and negative energy. Thus, people hang up red adornments like spring couplets, aka fai chun (揮春), which are characters for good luck and prosperity traditionally hand-painted on a square or rectangle paper and hung on the door, and lanterns at the entrance of their homes to ward off bad energy and welcome the good.

Chinese New Year couplets are hung at the entrance of homes. These couplets showcase beautifully written Chinese calligraphy that express sincere wishes of blessing. And to no one’s surprise, they are written against a red background. Similarly, door god banners act as a protective guardian for the home. The banners normally come in pairs, always facing each other, to ward off evil.

Spend Time With Families (And Feast!)

No Chinese holiday is without a family gathering and heaps of food to feast on together! The most important gathering happens on the eve of the lunar new year, which falls on January 28 this year. At least two generations unite and create a warm, upbeat atmosphere that sets the tone for a new year full of new beginnings. Connecting with loved ones is a reminder of the constant support we have that grounds us as we grow.

Give Red Envelopes

A very important Lunar New Year tradition is red envelopes, commonly known as lai see, which are filled with money and gifted to people. Typically, married couples gift lai see packets to children and unmarried ones. The amount of money ranges from a few dollars to significantly bigger amounts depending on your relationship with the person. Upon exchange, both parties wish blessings for each other (e.g. good health and wealth). It’s also common for employers to gift red packets to staff as a token of gratitude for their work.

Exchange Gifts With Loved Ones

Chinese New Year is a time for people to visit the homes of relatives and friends, but it’s never done empty-handed. Besides red packets, food is probably the number one most common gift. Culinary gifts range from glutinous rice cakes (nian gao 年糕) made of glutinous rice flour representing a higher position in life and fruit baskets representing fulfilment and wealth, to sweet festive treats like candied fruits representing an easy and fruitful year filled with abundance ahead.

Watch Dragon & Lion Dances

There’s no better way to kick-start the festivities than with the loud and boisterous dragon and lion dances. The dances punctuated with clanging from drums and cymbals parade the streets, malls, and even offices. They’re performed to bring good luck and prosperity. The costume is often worn by four or more dancers gliding and moving the creature’s head vigorously to affect a realistic lion or dragon. The more dancers, the longer the creature’s body and the more luck it represents. Have a brush with the mighty beast!

Watch Fireworks Show

In Hong Kong, the Chinese New Year fireworks are scheduled for the second day of CNY. This year, on January 30, the fireworks will begin at 8:00 pm over Victoria Harbour, lasting around 20-30 minutes. The show typically features the zodiac animal as its theme, and this year, we welcome the Year of the Snake. If you plan to watch the display, check out our guide for the best free spots along Victoria Harbour to enjoy the fireworks.

Pray To Deities At Temples

At the beginning of Chinese New Year, people visit temples to seek blessings and pay respect to their chosen deities. One of the most popular temples in Hong Kong is Wong Tai Sin Temple. There, worshippers express gratitude and pray for blessings such as career advancements, good health, finding true love, and earning more money. As a common practice, kau chim (求籤) is where people kneel and shake a cup of numbered fortune sticks. The sticks that fall out of the cylinder reveals guidance and insights into what the year ahead may hold.

Set Off Firecrackers

Legend has it that the noise from fireworks and firecrackers scared off a mythical beast in a tale about endangered villagers. Therefore, the louder the noise, the better! Although firecrackers are usually not allowed in Hong Kong, Chinese New Year is an exception, and locals often set them off in villages. The debris from the firecrackers is typically left on the ground, as sweeping it away is believed to remove any good luck brought by the display.

Hang Up Lanterns

A festival within a festival? Why not! On the final day of the 15-day Chinese New Year celebration (February 12, 2025), Hong Kong lights up for the Chinese Lantern Festival. Lanterns often take the shape of animals, including the zodiac sign of the year. Also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day, it was historically the only day in ancient times when singles could go out and seek love. Today, people celebrate by heading out to enjoy the festivities and guess lantern riddles.

Header image credits: Lewistsepuilung via Canva

How will Hong Kong Disneyland celebrate Chinese New Year?

This year, Hong Kong Disneyland will present a Mickey and Friends Year of the Snake Processional starring God of Fortune Goofy, who will also be a part of this year’s Chinese New Year Night Parade on January 29. Disney characters like Mickey, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and Pluto will be dressed in traditional festive outfits and groove to the original song Magic is Here, along with Mulan.

The fun will continue with the Chinese New Year Edition of the Mickey & Friends Street Celebration. Mickey, Minnie, and their pals, along with Duffy and Friends, will ride Mickey’s Main Street Express and bring festive cheer to spectators. Fan-favourite characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale will also make appearances at Fantasy Gardens. Visitors can also head to the Duffy and Friends Play House to meet Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni, StellaLou, CookieAnn, ‘Olu Mel, and LinaBell.

Starting from the first day of Chinese New Year, guests can even receive a Disney-themed red packet containing a gold chocolate coin at the entrance of the park, as well as dining and shopping vouchers. But the lai see packets are only available in limited numbers, so visitors who want to get their hands on them should head to the park as close to January 17 as possible.

What are the Duffy and Friends Play Days?

The fun at Disneyland won’t end once their Chinese New Year celebrations come to an end as the park will host the annual Duffy and Friends Play Days from February 21-May 7. During this time, the Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad will get a Duffy and Friends makeover, complete with colourful buntings and confetti. Duffy and some of his friends will also hop aboard the limited-time themed train in the all-new spring outfits.

Duffy and Friends will also dress up in seasonal outfits to present a seasonal The Joy of Sharing show at the castle stage, and will do meet-and-greets at the springtime-decorated Duffy and Friends Play House. Visitors will also come across Duffy and Friends plush photo installations featuring special seats for their furry companions in different themed lands. 

Image credits: Hong Kong Disneyland